Straight line to the hearts of the people

A thrill-seeking filmmaker’s footage was crowned the People’s Choice in one of the world’s most prestigious awards ceremony.

Ian Burton, 32, of Luddenden, took part in what world experts dubbed ‘impossible’ - when he walked, cycled and kayaked from Lands End to John O’Groats - in a straight line.

“Kayak world experts said it was impossible - that’s why I was so compelled to do it. I fell in love with the project as soon as I saw the map,” said Ian who has 20 years experience as an adventure filmmaker - including mountaineering on a programme with Welsh presenter Griff Rhys Jones .

The 1,000km amd 28 day journey comprised 70 per cent of travel via open ocean and was accomplished with Nick Beighton - an amputee who lost both legs serving in Afghanistan.

The 28 day mission was in aid of military charity Blesma.

“The film shows what people can achieve despite what has happened. Nick was an inspiration on the journey, of course - he is one of the only people in the world to have the mentality to take on such an intense challenge.”

The Beeline Britain project aim was to raise £20,000 for the charity - which it has already surpassed.

Last month, Ian’s hour long film was showcased at Kendal Mountain Festival and scooped the popular accolade.

Ian’s self-funded independent film is a cinematic poem of the journey of adventurers, he said.

“To observe an audience watching your film is always interesting - but to have it so well received by the public - well, it was just fantastic,” said Ian.